Breaking Down the West Virginia Mountaineers’ 2025 Spring Football Roster: A Deep Dive into Key Returning Stars, New Recruits, and the Emerging Talent That Could Shape WVU’s Next Championship Push

As the West Virginia Mountaineers gear up for the 2025 spring football season, anticipation is high among fans eager to see how the roster will take shape. With key returning stars, fresh recruits, and intense position battles, the team is entering a crucial phase of preparation.

Following an eventful 2024 season, head coach Neal Brown and his staff have been working tirelessly to build a roster capable of competing at the highest level. With veteran leadership, promising transfers, and rising young talent, the Mountaineers’ lineup is beginning to take form.

In this article, we take an in-depth look at the WVU football roster for the 2025 spring season, analyzing key players at each position, newcomers expected to make an impact, and the team’s overall outlook heading into the next chapter of Mountaineer football.

Quarterback Battle: Who Will Lead the Offense?

Returning Starter: Garrett Greene

WVU’s offense in 2024 thrived under the leadership of Garrett Greene, a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to extend plays with his legs and stretch defenses with his arm. Greene, now a senior, brings experience and leadership to the offense, making him the favorite to retain the starting job in 2025.

His 2024 season saw him throw for over 2,500 yards while rushing for nearly 700 yards, proving his versatility as a dynamic playmaker. However, he will need to continue developing as a consistent passer to fend off competition.

Challenger: Nicco Marchiol

Behind Greene, Nicco Marchiol remains a serious contender for the starting role. The former highly-rated recruit has patiently waited for his opportunity, showcasing flashes of brilliance in limited action. If Marchiol impresses in spring camp, WVU could face a true quarterback competition.

Dark Horse: Freshman Quarterback to Watch

Among the new recruits, 4-star QB prospect (TBD) is one to watch. While it’s unlikely he’ll win the job immediately, he could push for the backup role or redshirt while developing within WVU’s system.

Verdict: Greene Enters Spring as the Favorite

Unless something drastic happens, expect Greene to open spring practice as QB1 with Marchiol applying pressure.

Running Back Room: Depth and Talent to Power WVU’s Offense

The running back position remains a strength for WVU, thanks to a mix of returning veterans and talented newcomers.

Returning Star: CJ Donaldson

CJ Donaldson Jr. is set to return as the primary workhorse in WVU’s backfield. After rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2024, Donaldson proved himself as a bruising yet explosive back who can carry the load for the offense.

Key Backups: Jahiem White & Justin Williams

Behind Donaldson, Jahiem White and Justin Williams will look to carve out bigger roles. White provides speed and elusiveness, while Williams is a versatile back who can contribute as a receiver out of the backfield.

Freshman Addition: (TBD 2025 Recruit)

A highly touted freshman RB will also join the mix, but he may have to wait his turn behind the established veterans.

Verdict: Donaldson Will Lead, but Depth Is Strong

With a reliable stable of backs, WVU’s rushing attack will remain a focal point of the offense in 2025.

Wide Receiver Corps: Who Steps Up?

The Mountaineers must replace key departures at wide receiver, but a mix of returning talent and new faces should keep the position competitive.

Returning Playmakers: Devin Carter & Traylon Ray

• Devin Carter: WVU’s most experienced receiver, Carter provides size and physicality on the outside.
• Traylon Ray: An emerging deep-threat, Ray is expected to take on a bigger role in 2025.

Breakout Candidates: Rodney Gallagher & Cortez Braham

• Rodney Gallagher: A former top recruit, Gallagher could have a breakout year after showing flashes in 2024.
• Cortez Braham: A physical possession receiver who could become a reliable target in red-zone situations.

Newcomers to Watch

• A highly rated freshman receiver (TBD) is expected to join the team, and his development will be worth monitoring.

Verdict: A Talented Group That Needs a True No. 1 Option

The success of the passing game will depend on who emerges as the go-to playmaker.

Offensive Line: Stability & Experience

The offensive line has been a strength for WVU, and the 2025 unit returns key veterans, providing stability for the offense.

Returning Starters: Wyatt Milum & Zach Frazier

• Wyatt Milum (LT): The anchor of the line, Milum is a potential NFL Draft prospect.
• Zach Frazier (C): A leader on the line, Frazier will continue to be a key figure in WVU’s offensive success.

Depth & Incoming Recruits

• Several highly regarded freshmen and transfers are expected to add depth.

Verdict: A Veteran Group That Can Dominate

With experience and talent, this offensive line will be a major strength in 2025.

Defensive Front: Can WVU’s Pass Rush Take the Next Step?

Returning Leaders: Sean Martin & Jared Bartlett

• Sean Martin (DE): WVU’s best pass rusher, Martin will be key to disrupting opposing offenses.
• Jared Bartlett (LB/Edge): A versatile weapon, Bartlett adds speed and physicality to the pass rush.

New Additions: Freshman & Transfer Help

• WVU has added reinforcements through the transfer portal and recruiting class.

Verdict: Depth Is There, But WVU Needs a Consistent Pass Rush

Improving the pass rush will be critical for defensive success in 2025.

Linebackers: Strength in the Middle of the Defense

Returning Playmaker: Lee Kpogba

• Lee Kpogba (MLB): WVU’s most experienced linebacker, Kpogba will lead the defense.

Young Talent Emerging

• A few underclassmen could step up and earn more playing time.

Verdict: A Solid Unit That Needs Playmakers

WVU’s linebackers must improve in coverage while maintaining physicality against the run.

Secondary: Can WVU Lock Down Opposing Passing Attacks?

The secondary has been a question mark in recent seasons, but development and new recruits could make 2025 a turning point.

Key Returners: Aubrey Burks & Malachi Ruffin

• Aubrey Burks (S): A leader in the secondary, Burks brings experience and toughness.
• Malachi Ruffin (CB): Expected to take on a bigger role in pass coverage.

New Additions

• A top cornerback recruit (TBD) will compete for early playing time.

Verdict: The Secondary Must Improve for WVU to Compete

If WVU wants to compete for a Big 12 title, pass defense must be a priority.

Final Outlook for WVU in 2025

With returning talent, key recruits, and depth at most positions, the Mountaineers have the potential to take a big step forward in 2025.

However, success will depend on:

• Quarterback consistency
• Playmakers stepping up at WR and DB
• Defensive improvements, particularly in pass rush

If WVU can address these areas, they could surprise many in 2025. The spring season will offer the first glimpse at how this roster will come together for a potentially exciting season ahead.